The Don Ryan Center for Innovation is the Economic Development Department of the Town of Bluffton.
Our goal is to help startup and existing companies in Bluffton and the surrounding region.
INNOVATOR IMPACT
300+ Companies Served
OUR MISSION
To provide small business development to innovators, start-ups and early stage businesses launch. To grow their companies and provide the resources and experienced business guidance needed to help them achieve their goals – and help create a vibrant entrepreneurial business climate throughout the region.
OUR VISION
Create a vibrant entrepreneurial business climate within the region through economic development emphasizing organic, sustainable growth. Enhance the economic vitality, diversity, and dynamism of the region.
Programs
Our business incubator program was developed in collaboration with Clemson University and local business experts who understand the industries and economic landscape startups face upon entering the market. With programs typically lasting 12 months to 3 years, our innovators have unparalleled access to information, mentorship, and communities to prepare them every step of the way.
The HUB
The home of the Don Ryan Center for Innovation, the HUB at Buckwalter is an exciting new space to meet the growing needs of our innovators and the business community. This space allows us to expand our networking events and opportunities for members, accelerating the creation of entrepreneurial ventures, knowledge-based jobs and innovative business solutions.
If you need business advice but not sure where to start, start at The HUB!
Mentors
The Don Ryan Center for Innovation has built a core group of mentors who provide advice and guidance to entrepreneurs in the program. These mentors volunteer their time to support DRCI Innovators throughout all phases of their business. With their help, DRCI Program companies have access to the information they need to grow their businesses and develop strong leadership skills.
Membership
Building a sense of community is crucial to creating an innovative environment, and that means serving entrepreneurs both in and outside of our programs. From DRCI and partner networking events to an informative monthly newletter, and a wealth of online resources we make it a priority to provide opportunities to our members every month and throughout the year.
DRCI mentors bring real world experience
DRCI offers our Program Companies and members the opportunity to collaborate with some of the best consultants in the industry for information, advice and guidance.
